Geriatric care managers (or Aging Life Care Professionals) are specialists trained to help seniors and their families navigate the complexities of aging. They can provide a wide range of services, including assessing needs, developing care plans, coordinating services, and advocating for the senior's well-being.
Here are some reasons why you might want to use a geriatric care manager:
Expertise: Geriatric care managers are trained professionals with specialized knowledge in aging issues, including healthcare, legal, financial, and social services.
Comprehensive assessment: A geriatric care manager can conduct a comprehensive assessment of a senior's physical, mental, and emotional health, as well as their living environment, to identify any potential risks and recommend appropriate interventions.
Customized care plan: Based on the assessment, a geriatric care manager can develop a customized care plan that addresses the senior's unique needs and preferences, and coordinates services from different providers.
Care coordination: A geriatric care manager can serve as a central point of contact for the senior's care team, ensuring that everyone is working together and communicating effectively.
Advocacy: A geriatric care manager can advocate for the senior's rights and interests, particularly in situations where they may be vulnerable or facing difficult decisions.
We often turn to using a professional in situations of crisis. When an emergency or sudden change of situation has occurred that one needs quick advice; events such as a fall, change in health, death of a spouse, loss of transportation, etc.
At Care Coordinators of Colorado we take an intentional approach to aging well, rather than simply reacting to the challenges that come with aging. This approach emphasizes taking steps to maintain physical, mental, and emotional health as we age, rather than waiting until problems arise to address them. Items we consider in our evaluation process: home safety, transportation, personal care needs, end of life planning, isolation prevention, and a resources evaluation to name a few. By adopting these proactive measures, individuals can improve their overall quality of life as they age, and potentially reduce their risk of developing age-related health problems.
Overall, a geriatric care manager can provide invaluable support and guidance to seniors and their families, helping them navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of aging with dignity and independence.